Speaking of large losses, Rick said "my suspicions are nosema, weak colonies
to begin with and
goldenrod."

I agree, except possibly concerning the goldenrod.  I have 200 colonies just
20 miles south of Rick, and also overwintered 35 four-frame nucs.

I use plastic foundation, but wood frames (I hate the Pierco frames) and
wood hives.  I insist of lots of top ventilation, and my favorite
ventilation scheme leaves a 1/2" slot totally across the front top of the
upper hive body, with a galvanized telescoping cover perched on the top of
the 1/2" slot and sloping to the back of the hive.  (In other words, the
1/2" slot is totally exposed.)  I also use screen bottom boards.

My hives are not wrapped, but the nucs were wrapped with a single layer of
roofing felt.

Out of 72 hives checked so far, I have lost 3.  I did not lose a single
nuc...but they are light and need to be fed as soon as I can get a truck
into the yard.

Last year was terrible for honey production, and I fed lots of HFCS 55 in
the fall and treated for Varroa.  I have not treated for tracheal mites in 5
years.  I did not treat for Nosema, but those who do so get higher honey
production, IMHO.

Lloyd
Lloyd Spear, Owner Ross Rounds, Inc.
Manufacturers of Ross Rounds Comb
Honey Equipment, Sundance Pollen Traps
and Custom Printer of Sundance Labels.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
-- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and  other info ---
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::